Trump’s delay of Xi visit echoes pattern of last-minute changes

US President Donald Trump has long used last-minute switches on foreign travel and meetings with heads of state as yet another leverage tool as he seeks a diplomatic upper hand and keep foreign partners on their toes. Mr Trump’s request this week to delay a planned trip to China initially set for March 31 to April 2 is the latest example in a pattern of postponing or calling off high-profile meetings that he decides does not suit his interests. Throughout his first and second terms, he has enjoyed keeping allies and adversaries guessing about his travel plans. A few times,…